Georgia, known for its lush landscapes and mild climate, offers some of the finest golf courses in the United States, catering to both seasoned pros and weekend warriors.
From the rolling hills of the North Georgia mountains to the coastal plains, each course provides unique challenges and stunning scenery.
Georgia’s top courses blend historical significance with modern design, testing golfers’ skills while immersing them in the region’s natural beauty and rich heritage.
Highlights include Augusta National Golf Club, home of the Masters Tournament, and East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, known for its deep history and role in the PGA Tour Championship.
Another must-visit is Sea Island Golf Club, renowned for its world-class amenities and breathtaking ocean views. Additionally, the Great Waters Course at Reynolds Lake Oconee offers a pristine lakeside experience that shouldn’t be missed.
13 Must-Play Golf Courses in Georgia: A Golfer’s Paradise
Georgia is a golfer’s paradise, offering breathtaking landscapes and challenging courses. Discover 13 must-play golf courses that promise unforgettable experiences for both seasoned pros and casual enthusiasts.
1. Cateechee
Cateechee in Hartwell, Georgia, is a semi-private gem offering stunning views and challenging play. With a green fee starting at $75, it’s a popular choice for golfers.
Players praise the fair yet demanding course design. The only significant change expected is converting hole 10 from a par 3 to a par 4. One round’s highlight includes a lengthy 612-yard par 5, which can penalize errant tee shots on the left.
Golfer reviews often mention their love for the beautiful vistas. A notable example is a round where one player shot a 74 and another a 78 from the black tees.
2. Lanier Islands Legacy Golf Course
Located in Buford, Georgia, Lanier Islands Legacy Golf Course is part of an exquisite resort setting. Green fees range from $95 to $120. This golf course is often lauded as one of the best courses in Georgia.
Golfers emphasize its beauty, highlighting the numerous holes along the lake. Despite recent dry spells, the course remains expertly maintained with generally dry fairways and exceptionally smooth greens.
Reviewer mozzer praises the layout and maintenance, noting that even with recent heavy rain, the greens ran well. He describes the fairways as excellent, contributing to an enjoyable golfing experience.
The attractiveness of the course combined with its thoughtful design makes it an essential visit for golf enthusiasts.
3. Fairfield Plantation Golf & Country Club
Located in Villa Rica, Georgia, Fairfield Plantation Golf & Country Club is a semi-private course that offers a rewarding challenge for golfers. The green fee ranges from $49 to $59, making it an affordable option.
Under the new Superintendent, the course has improved considerably. Golfers note the lack of wide-open spaces, necessitating precise swings
Despite not providing views of the 270-acre Lake Tara or the other two lakes, the course remains popular. Reviews highlight the course’s excellent condition, urging others to give it a try this year.
4. Sky Valley Country Club
Sky Valley Country Club, located in Sky Valley, Georgia, offers a semi-private golfing experience with green fees ranging from $55 to $110. The course boasts perfect fairways and fast greens, though its fescue rough can be punitive.
Despite no help at the bag drop or a beverage cart, golfers appreciate the stunning views and excellent course conditions.
The course has a par of 71 and lacks a GPS for yardage or extensive yardage markers, challenging golfers to bring their own measuring tools. Its natural beauty and lush grass make it a must-visit, even without a starter or lower rates.
5. University of Georgia Golf Course
Located in Athens, the University of Georgia Golf Course is a public course acclaimed for its pristine condition. With green fees ranging from $53 to $81, it offers great value for golfers.
Players commend the bentgrass greens for their excellent maintenance, even under summer stress. One reviewer noted, “As a pair on July 5th, we zipped through despite two lightning delays.”
This course caters to all skill levels, boasting 18 challenging holes. Its scenic layout and well-kept fairways provide an enjoyable experience.
Though previous comments mentioned slow play, recent feedback highlights improved pace. Ideal for those seeking a top-quality golfing venue.
6. Brasstown Valley Resort Golf Course
Nestled in the mountains of Young Harris, the Brasstown Valley Resort Golf Course offers a picturesque and affordable golfing experience with green fees ranging from $39 to $49.
The well-managed course features challenging holes and stunning vistas, earning high praise for its excellent condition and breathtaking scenery.
The Sea Island Golf Club on St. Simons Island is known for its luxurious amenities and world-class greens, consistently ranking among the top golf courses in the United States. It features the Plantation and Seaside courses, which blend history and coastal beauty.
Reynolds Lake Oconee boasts six premier courses designed by legendary architects, offering a variety of challenges and scenic views.
7. McLemore Club
McLemore Club, located in Rising Fawn, Georgia, is a private golf course known for its stunning views and exceptional service, with green fees starting at $150.
Visitors frequently commend the excellent customer service, highlighting the helpfulness of staff including a particularly friendly bartender named Stone. The course is well-maintained, though some players have noted slow play on weekends, especially on the 6th and 18th holes.
Despite this, McLemore is highly rated for its scenic Highland Course and superior amenities, making it a favorite among golfers in Georgia.
8. Traditions of Braselton Golf Club
Traditions of Braselton Golf Club in Jefferson, Georgia is a private course known for its impeccable landscape and challenging layout. With green fees starting at $79, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Randall4 praised the club, stating, “Never disappoints. Pace was slower today due to frost delay. Plus, group ahead slower than usual.
However, Marshal did ask them to speed up.” Golfers appreciate the club’s commitment to maintaining a high-quality experience, even when pace issues arise. It offers an exceptional golfing experience that’s well worth the visit.
9. Sanctuary Golf Club
Sanctuary Golf Club in Waverly, Georgia, offers a semi-private course celebrated for its natural beauty, exceptional upkeep, and excellent amenities, with green fees from $65 to $155.
Golfers enjoy the top-notch practice facilities, friendly staff, and a delightful lunch experience. This makes the club a favored spot for both casual and serious players.
Next, East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta is noted for its historical significance and challenging layout, being the oldest golf course in Atlanta and the permanent home of the Tour Championship, providing a unique mix of tradition and competitive play.
10. Chimney Oaks Golf Club
Nestled in Homer, Georgia, Chimney Oaks Golf Club delights golfers with its semi-private experience. The green fees range from $60 to $80, offering great value for the quality provided.
Players consistently praise the immaculate course conditions and the near-private feel. Mikecham noted, “The general manager and staff always provide top-notch service. They do an excellent job 100% of the time.”
Golfers can expect exceptional service, making every visit enjoyable. The club’s well-maintained greens and fairways add to the appeal, ensuring a round of golf that’s both challenging and pleasurable.
11. Richard B. Russell State Park – Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course
Arrowhead Pointe in Elberton, Georgia, offers a well-maintained golf course with views of Lake Richard B. Russell and green fees ranging from $47 to $57. Augusta National Golf Club is famous for immaculate fairways and challenging greens, hosting The Masters Tournament.
Cuscowilla on Lake Oconee, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, mixes natural beauty with strategic play. The Great Waters Course at Reynolds Lake Oconee, designed by Jack Nicklaus, features stunning lake views and excellent conditions.
Cherokee Run Golf Club in Conyers, designed by Arnold Palmer, has rolling terrain and a challenging layout. Sea Island Golf Club on St. Simons Island boasts three renowned courses set against picturesque seascapes, offering a varied golfing experience.
12. The Club at Osprey Cove
The Club at Osprey Cove in Saint Marys, Georgia, offers a private resort experience featuring an 18-hole golf course designed by Mark McCumber. The course boasts well-maintained fairways, strategic bunkers, water hazards, and scenic coastal views.
Praised by Golf Digest and reviewers for its layout and friendly staff, the club offers green fees for various budgets but has limited dining hours, with the kitchen closing at 4 PM.
Besides golf, amenities include a fitness center, swimming pools, and dining options, making for a complete and enjoyable visit for both experienced and novice golfers.
13. King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort
Located on Saint Simons Island, the King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort is a premier destination for golf enthusiasts, with green fees starting at $135+. The resort features a well-maintained course, friendly staff, and inclusive range balls.
Guests enjoy stunning coastal views and luxurious amenities, creating a memorable experience. The serene setting and challenging layout cater to all skill levels, while nearby restaurants and spas offer additional relaxation and indulgence, making for an exceptional golf vacation.
Another must-visit is Augusta National Golf Club, famed for hosting the prestigious Masters Tournament. With its immaculate greens and historic significance, it remains a bucket-list destination for golfers worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the top golf courses in Georgia featured in the article?
The article highlights several top golf courses in Georgia, including the McLemore Club, Traditions of Braselton Golf Club, Sanctuary Golf Club, Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course at Richard B. Russell State Park, The Club at Osprey Cove, and The King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort.
What makes The King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort unique?
The King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort on Saint Simons Island is noted for its well-maintained course, stunning coastal views, and luxurious amenities, providing a unique and memorable golfing experience.
Are there golf courses in Georgia suitable for all skill levels?
Yes, Georgia’s premier golf courses cater to all skill levels by offering a mix of challenging layouts, picturesque views, and exceptional amenities designed to provide a memorable experience for golfers of every ability.
What features make the Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course notable?
Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course at Richard B. Russell State Park is particularly recognized for its scenic landscapes and challenging layout, making it a remarkable destination for golf enthusiasts.
Is pricing information available for the highlighted golf courses?
Yes, the article includes information on the features and pricing of the highlighted golf courses, helping golf enthusiasts choose the best option based on their preferences and budget.
Conclusion
Georgia’s premier golf courses like the beautiful McLemore Club, Traditions of Braselton Golf Club, and Sanctuary Golf Club offer a mix of challenging layouts and picturesque views.
State parks feature gems like Arrowhead Pointe, while Osprey Cove offers unique coastal landscapes. For those seeking luxury, the King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort on Saint Simons Island provides exceptional amenities and stunning scenery.
Georgia’s golf courses cater to all skill levels, offering something special for every golfer. Whether you’re looking for a challenging game or a relaxing day, these courses deliver unforgettable experiences.
With meticulously maintained fairways and top-notch facilities, these 13 best golf courses in Georgia promise not only recreational enjoyment but also a chance to witness the state’s diverse natural beauty.
So pack your clubs and experience the best that Georgia golf has to offer. From the mountains to the coast, these courses are sure to impress and elevate your game. Discover your next favorite course in the Peach State today.
Colin McCarthy